Chewy Almond Truffles with Lola Berry

I don’t usually post recipes. You will probably know that by now. But every now and then I come across something that I think needs to be shared. This is where Lola Berry’s Chewy Almond Truffles come in. Now, I know you’re probably thinking one of two things: a) You know Lola Berry and might be skeptical that healthy food can taste great, or b) you’re thinking about chocolate ganache and cocoa. Well… yes these are healthy and no, they are not at all similar to the truffles that you find in chocolate shops, but I guarantee you they are delicious. And we know I’m not a health food freak, so I’m not just saying this to get you to eat your fruit and vegetables.

How did I come across these? Lola Berry is a pretty well known character in the health food scene in Melbourne so I checked out her website and in true form, picked the recipe that sounded the most like chocolate.

Place dates, almond meal, walnuts, coconut oil, almond milk, goji berries and cacao powder in a blender or food processor and whizz until well combined. The mixture should be a bit crumbly, but not too dry, so add another teaspoon of coconut oil if you need to.

Now stir in the cacao nibs, but don’t blend them because we want them to stay super-crunchy.

Roll into little balls and toss through the desiccated coconut. Place in the fridge for 2 hours to set (if you can hold off eating them for that long)!

Cut and store in an airtight container in the fridge.

TIP: Medjool dates are usually found in the refrigerated fruit and veggie section of supermarkets, but if you can’t find any, use regular dried dates, but you’ll need to soak them in water for 20 minutes so that they’re sticky enough.

Why are they so healthy you might ask? (I did too and here is what I found out):

Cacao – Raw cacoa is high in antioxidants, magnesium and bliss nutrients that are said to help keep you young, healthy and happy. (Bliss nutrients literally make you happy. How cute is that?)

Goji Berries – These red devils contain 18 amino acids including all the essential amino acids. They are high in protein, minerals and vitamins, especially vitamin C and carotenoids. Goji berries also contain polysaccharides which fortify the immune system and build strength. Chinese medicine also says that Goji berries increase the ‘chi’ or life force of those who eat them.

Walnuts – These ugly ducklings are known for their fatty acid profile and high omega 3 content. They’re also a great source of protein and dietary fibre.

Dates – Nature really nailed it on the head with dates. They are sweeter than sugar and help with digestion, lowering risk of heart disease, abdominal cancer and sexual disfunction. They are packed with fiber, potassium, and copper and even help kick a hangover. SOMEONE HAND ME A DATE.

Now, these Chewy Almond Truffles, packed with all the above, really are something else. They are rich, chocolaty, crunchy and more-ish. They satisfy any sweet tooth or mid afternoon hunger in a second and they really are good for you. Who knew healthy eating could be so fun?